NAII

SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this report, including information incorporated by reference, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect current views about future events and financial performance based on certain assumptions. They include opinions, forecasts, intentions, plans, goals, projections, guidance, expectations, beliefs, or other statements that are not statements of historical fact. Words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “approximate,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,”, “future”, or “likely”, or the negative or other variation of such words, and similar expressions may identify a statement as a forward-looking statement. Any statements that refer to projections of our future financial performance, our anticipated growth and trends in our business, our goals, strategies, focus and plans, and other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including statements expressing general optimism or pessimism about future operating results, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this report may include statements about:

The forward-looking statements in this report speak only as of the date of this report and caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain events, risks, and uncertainties that are or may be outside of our control. When considering forward-looking statements, you should carefully review the risks, uncertainties and other cautionary statements in this report as they identify certain important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the risks described under Item 1A of Part I and elsewhere in this report, as well as in other reports and documents we file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

General

Our vision is to enrich the world through the best of nutrition.

We are a leading formulator, manufacturer and marketer of nutritional supplements. Our comprehensive strategic partnerships with our customers allow us to offer a wide range of innovative nutritional products and services to such customers including: scientific research, clinical studies, proprietary ingredients, customer-specific nutritional product formulation, product testing and evaluation, marketing management and support, packaging and delivery system design, regulatory review, and international product registration assistance.

As our primary business activity, we provide private-label contract manufacturing services to companies that market and distribute vitamins, minerals, herbal and other nutritional supplements, as well as other health care products, to consumers both within and outside the U.S. We also own a patent estate related to the raw material ingredient known as beta-alanine, which is primarily commercialized through the direct sale of this raw material and supply agreements with third parties for the distribution and use of this raw material under our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® trademarks. We also sell a branded version of our SR CarnoSyn® tablet product under a brand we created called SustainedRx® with a product named Perfect Synergy®. This product is currently exclusively offered through Amazon and is marketed as a Health & Wellness product.

History

Originally founded in 1980, Natural Alternatives International, Inc. (NAI) reorganized as a Delaware corporation in 1989. Our principal executive offices are located at 1535 Faraday Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Our primary U.S. manufacturing facility is located approximately three miles away in Vista, California. We also purchased a new manufacturing and warehousing facility on August 20, 2021 located approximately one mile away from our executive offices in Carlsbad, CA. We expect this new facility will be operational sometime in mid-fiscal 2023.

In January 1999, we formed our wholly owned subsidiary Natural Alternatives International Europe S.A. (NAIE), a Swiss corporation based in Manno, Switzerland. In September 1999, NAIE opened its manufacturing facility in Manno, Switzerland, which has grown over the ensuing years and currently possesses manufacturing capabilities in encapsulation, powders, tablets, finished goods packaging, quality control, laboratory testing, warehousing, distribution and administration.

In 1997, we licensed certain patent rights related to instant-release beta-alanine and have since expanded this patent estate by applying for and obtaining patents to include sustained-release beta-alanine. We sell these products under our trademarks CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn®. As part of our business strategy, we have sought to commercialize our CarnoSyn® patent estate through contract manufacturing, royalty and license agreements. We directly sell CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® and license our related patent and trademark rights to others for use in or with their products.

Unless the context requires otherwise, all references in this report to the “Company,” “NAI,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refer to Natural Alternatives International, Inc. and, as applicable NAIE.

Overview of our Facilities and Operations

Our U.S.-based operations are located in Vista and Carlsbad, California and include manufacturing and distribution, sales and marketing, in-house formulation, laboratory, and other research and development services. Our Vista manufacturing facilities are certified by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia after its audit of our GMP’s. TGA evaluates new therapeutic products, prepares standards, develops testing methods and conducts testing programs to ensure that products are high in quality, safe and effective. TGA also conducts a range of assessment and monitoring activities including audits of the manufacturing practices of companies who export and sell products to Australia. TGA certification enables us to manufacture products for export into countries that have signed the Pharmaceutical Inspection Convention, which include most European countries as well as several Pacific Rim countries. TGA certifications are generally reviewed every eighteen to thirty six months. During August 2022, TGA completed an inspection of our Vista, CA facility and quality systems for compliance with GMP, and a renewed GMP clearance is expected in the coming months.

Our Vista facilities also have been awarded GMP registration annually since October 2002 by NSF International (NSF) through the NSF Dietary Supplements Certification Program and received “GMP for Sport” NSF Certified registration on February 16, 2009. GMP requirements are regulatory standards and guidelines setting forth necessary processes, procedures and documentation for manufacturers in an effort to assure the products produced by that manufacturer have the identity, strength, composition, quality and purity represented. The NSF Certified for Sport program focuses on minimizing the risk that a dietary supplement or sports nutrition product contains banned substances and was developed due to growing demand from athletes and coaches concerned about banned substances in sports supplements. The program focuses primarily on manufacturing and sourcing processes, while embedding preventative measures throughout. NAI’s participation in the program allows us to produce products bearing the NSF Sport logo.

Our Vista operations have also been certified by Health Canada as compliant with the GMP requirements outlined in Part 3 of the Canadian Natural Health Products Regulations. Health Canada is the department of the Canadian government with responsibility for national public health. Health Canada has initiated work to modernize its regulatory system for food and health products. Health Canada plays an active role in ensuring access to safe and effective drugs and health products while giving high priority to public safety and strives to provide information needed to make good choices and informed decisions regarding one’s health. NAI was issued its initial certification by Health Canada in December 2011 and received its most recent renewal in November 2019, which is valid until December 2022. This approval demonstrates another level of regulatory compliance by NAI, and may also ease the approval process for our customers who import products into Canada.

During March 2015, our Vista California facility became certified as an Organic Processor and Handler by Natural Food Certifiers (NFC). This certification demonstrates our facility meets the USDA National Organic Program standards and allows our contract manufacturing and packaging services to include products labeled as Organic. The certification requires annual renewal and was last renewed in February 2022. We are registered with the State of California, Department of Public Health Food and Drug Branch as an organic processor. Additionally, we are certified by various Rabbinical and Halal authorities to produce Kosher and Halal certified products. These certifications guarantee the manufacturing facility and processes for, and the ingredients of, certified products have been reviewed and found to be in compliance with the strict dietary laws of the respective Jewish and Muslim communities.

In April 2021, NAI became the first company to meet new safety and benchmarking standards created by the Supplement Safety & Compliance Initiative (SSCI). The SSCI is an industry-driven initiative led by retailers to provide a harmonized benchmark to recognize various safety standards throughout the entire dietary supplement supply chain. Patterned after the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), which has been very successful in implementation across the grocery marketplace and food retail sectors, the program is focused on improved traceability and identification protocols to provide maximum safety for end users. SSCI key objectives include creating effective global systems to ensure traceability, transparency, and quality in the supply chain; reducing risks by ensuring equivalence between safety management systems’ and driving global change through benchmarking of domestic and international quality standards.

On August 20, 2021, NAI acquired a new manufacturing and warehouse facility in Carlsbad, California that is scheduled to be retrofitted to become a dedicated high volume powder blending and packaging facility while also providing additional raw material storage capacity. The building improvements to allow for these capabilities are expected to be completed in mid-fiscal year 2023 and all such construction is expected to be in compliance with GMP requirements. We are currently evaluating which of the above referenced additional certifications will be necessary for this new facility and will be dependent on types of products and customers we will service out of this facility. 

NAIE operates a manufacturing, warehousing, packaging and distribution facility in Manno, Switzerland. In January 2004, NAIE obtained a pharmaceutical license from the Swissmedic Authority of Bern, Switzerland to process pharmaceuticals for packaging, import, export and sale within Switzerland and other countries. In March 2007, following the expansion of NAIE’s manufacturing facilities to include powder filling capabilities, NAIE obtained an additional pharmaceutical license from the Swissmedic Authority certifying that NAIE’s expanded facilities conform to their GMPs. In January 2013, following the additional upgrade of NAIE’s manufacturing facilities to include the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, NAIE obtained an additional pharmaceutical approval from the Swissmedic Authority certifying that NAIE’s upgraded facilities conform to GMP. We believe these licenses and NAIE’s manufacturing capabilities help strengthen our relationships with existing customers and improve our ability to develop relationships with new customers. NAIE's last Swissmedic inspection was conducted in August 2020 and the renewed certification was issued in September 2020.

In March 2019, the Japanese Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare approved beta-alanine for use in Japanese food products. We have partnered with Shimizu Chemical Corporation of Hiroshima Japan to provide exclusive distribution of our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine in Japan.

Business Strategy

Our goals are to achieve long-term growth and profitability and to diversify our sales base. To accomplish these goals, we have sought, and intend to continue to seek, to do the following:

Overall, we believe there is an opportunity to enhance consumer confidence in the quality of our customer’s nutritional supplements and their adherence to label claims through education provided by direct sales and direct-to-consumer marketing programs. We believe our GMP and TGA certified manufacturing operations, science-based product formulations, peer-reviewed clinical studies and regulatory expertise collectively provide us with a sustainable competitive advantage and provide our customers with a high degree of confidence in the products we manufacture.

While today’s consumer may have access to a variety of information, we believe many consumers remain uneducated about nutrition and nutritional supplementation, uncertain about the relevance or reliability of the information available to them, or confused about conflicting claims or information. We believe this state of the market creates a significant opportunity for the direct sales marketing channel. The direct sales marketing channel has proved, and we believe will continue to prove, to be a highly effective method for marketing high-quality nutritional supplements because it allows associates or other individuals to educate consumers on the benefits of science-based nutritional supplements. Some of our largest customers operate in the direct sales marketing channel. Thus, the majority of our business has relied primarily on the effectiveness of our customers in this marketing channel.

We also believe there is significant opportunity with the commercialization of our patent estate through the introduction of CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine into additional markets and with the introduction of new beta-alanine product offerings. Currently, a majority of our sales of CarnoSyn® are to companies that operate in the sports nutrition channel and are focused on products containing the instant release form of beta-alanine. We believe there are several other markets and distribution channels that represent growth opportunities for the distribution of CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine. We believe SR CarnoSyn® is a superior delivery system of CarnoSyn® beta-alanine based on its sustained release profile that allows for increased daily dosing and improved muscle retention of carnosine. We believe SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine is a vital component in the further commercialization of our patent estate outside of the sports nutrition channel. As part of this commercialization effort we launched an SR CarnoSyn® tablet product called Perfect Synergy® under a brand we created called SustainedRx®. This product is currently exclusively offered through Amazon and is marketed as a Health & Wellness product. We are currently developing an update to our SustainedRx® website (www.sustainedrx.com) and plan on selling our Perfect Synergy® product directly to consumers through this website by the second quarter of fiscal 2023. In addition, we are actively working on the development of an SR CaronSyn® powder that we believe will provide more opportunities in the marketplace. Our patents related to instant release beta-alanine extend through 2026 and our patents for SR CarnoSyn® extend through 2036.

We believe our comprehensive approach to customer service is unique within our industry. We believe this comprehensive approach, together with our commitment to high quality, product development and manufacturing capabilities, will provide the means to implement our strategies and achieve our goals. There can be no assurance, however, that we will successfully implement any of our business strategies or that we will increase or diversify our sales, successfully commercialize our patent estate, or improve our overall financial results.

Products, Principal Markets and Methods of Distribution

Our primary business activity is to provide private-label contract manufacturing services to companies that market and distribute vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutritional supplements, as well as other health care products, to consumers both within and outside the U.S. Our private-label contract manufacturing customers include companies that market nutritional supplements through direct sales marketing channels, direct to consumer ecommerce channels, and retail stores. We manufacture products in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, chewable wafers, and powders to accommodate a variety of our customer’s preferences.

We provide strategic partnering services to our private-label contract manufacturing customers that include but are not limited to the following:

We also seek to commercialize our patent and trademarks through the direct distribution and sale of CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn®, new contract manufacturing opportunities, and various license, royalty, and similar arrangements.

For the last two fiscal years ended June 30, our net sales were derived from the following (in thousands):

Research and Development

We are committed to quality research and development. We focus on the development of new science-based products and the improvement of existing products. We periodically test and validate our products to help ensure their stability, potency, efficacy and safety. We maintain quality control procedures to verify that our products comply with applicable specifications and standards established by the FDA and other regulatory agencies. We also both direct and participate in clinical research studies, often in collaboration with scientists and research institutions, to validate the benefits of an ingredient or a product and provide scientific support for product claims and marketing initiatives. We believe our commitment to research and development, as well as to our facilities and strategic alliances with our suppliers and customers, allow us to effectively identify, develop and market high-quality and innovative products.

As part of the services we provide to our private-label contract manufacturing customers, we may perform, but are not always engaged to perform, certain research and development activities related to the development or improvement of their products. Our customers are usually charged for these services but are often reimbursed for these costs if their products are ultimately commercialized and manufactured by NAI. Research and development costs, including costs associated with international regulatory compliance services we provide to our customers, are expensed as incurred.

Our research and development expenses for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 were $2.5 million, compared to $1.9 million for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021.

Sources and Availability of Raw Materials

We use many raw materials in our operations including powders, excipients, empty capsules, and components for packaging and distributing our finished products. In addition, the commercialization of our beta-alanine patents and trademarks depends on the availability of the raw material beta-alanine. We conduct identity testing for all raw materials we purchase and, on a predetermined testing protocol basis we evaluate raw materials to ensure their quality, purity and potency before we use them in our or our customer’s products. We typically buy raw materials in bulk from qualified vendors located both within and outside the U.S.

Like many companies and industries, we experienced challenges within our supply chain as a result of the affects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, we encountered difficulties related to the supply of raw materials and packaging components. These challenges were driven by, but were not limited to, increased demand for certain ingredients with a limited supply, our supplier’s inability to meet demand due to capacity constraints, and increased lead times associated with constrained transportation availability. While we have been able to manage these circumstances since the beginning of the pandemic by working closely with our customers and suppliers, there continues to be significant pricing pressures and supply chain challenges associated with various raw materials and packaging components. Additionally, there still remains uncertainty related to existing and potentially increased tariffs. Throughout fiscal 2023, we expect upward pricing pressures for raw materials, packaging components, and other costs will continue as a result of limited supplies of various ingredients, the effects of higher labor and transportation costs, and the potential levy of tariffs on goods we import from overseas, including beta-alanine.

Customers

We have three private-label contract manufacturing customers that each individually represent more than 10% of our consolidated net sales. The loss of any of these customers could result in a significant negative impact to our financial position and results of operations. We continue to focus on obtaining new private-label contract manufacturing customers to reduce the risks associated with deriving a significant portion of our sales from a limited number of customers.

Competition

We compete with other manufacturers, distributors and marketers of vitamins, minerals, plant extracts, and other nutritional supplements both within and outside the U.S. The nutritional supplement industry is highly fragmented and competition for the sale of nutritional supplements comes from many sources. These products are sold primarily through retailers (drug store chains, supermarkets, and mass market discount retailers), health and natural food stores, and direct sales channels (network marketing and internet sales).

We believe private-label contract manufacturing competition in our industry is based on, among other things, customized services offered, product quality and safety, innovation, price and customer service. We believe we compete favorably with other companies because of our ability to provide comprehensive solutions for customers, our certified manufacturing operations, our commitment to quality and safety, and our research and development activities.

Our future competitive position for private-label contract manufacturing and patent and trademark licensing will likely depend on, but not be limited to, the following:

The nutritional supplement industry is highly competitive and we expect the level of competition to remain high over the near term. We do not have sufficient information to accurately estimate the total number or size of our competitors.

Government Regulation

Our business is subject to varying degrees of regulation by a number of government authorities in the U.S., including the FDA, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Various state and local agencies in areas where we operate and in which our products are sold also regulate our business, such as the California Department of Health Services, Food and Drug Branch. The areas of our business regulated by both these and other authorities include, among others:

The FDA, in particular, regulates the formulation, manufacturing, packaging, storage, labeling, promotion, distribution and sale of vitamins and other nutritional supplements in the U.S., while the FTC regulates marketing and advertising claims. Under FDA rules, companies that manufacture, package, label, distribute or hold nutritional supplements are required to meet certain GMP’s to ensure such products are of the quality specified and are properly packaged and labeled. We are committed to meeting or exceeding the standards set by the FDA and believe we are currently operating within the FDA mandated GMP.

The FDA also regulates the labeling and marketing of dietary supplements and nutritional products, including the following:

The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA) revised the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act concerning the composition and labeling of dietary supplements and re-defined dietary supplements to include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids and other dietary substances. DSHEA generally provides a regulatory framework to help ensure safe, quality dietary supplements and the dissemination of accurate information about such products. The FDA is generally prohibited from regulating active ingredients in dietary supplements as drugs unless product claims about such supplements trigger regulatory status, such as claims that a product may heal, mitigate, cure or prevent an illness, disease or malady.

In December 2006, the Dietary Supplement and Nonprescription Drug Consumer Protection Act (the “2006 Act”) was passed, and further revised the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Under the 2006 Act, manufacturers, packers or distributors whose name appears on the product label of a dietary supplement or nonprescription drug are required to include contact information on the product label for consumers to use in reporting adverse events associated with the product’s use and to notify the FDA of any serious adverse event report. Events reported to the FDA are not considered an admission from a company that its product caused or contributed to the reported event. We believe we are in compliance with the 2006 Act and we are committed to meeting or exceeding the requirements of the 2006 Act.

We are also subject to a variety of other regulations in the U.S., including those relating to health, safety, bioterrorism, taxes, labor, employment, import and export, the environment and intellectual property. All of these regulations require significant financial and operational resources to ensure compliance, and we cannot assure you we will always be in compliance despite our best efforts to do so or that being in compliance will not become prohibitively costly to our business.

Our operations outside the U.S. are similarly regulated by various agencies and entities in the countries in which we operate and in which our products are sold. The regulations of these countries may conflict with those in the U.S. and may vary from country to country. The sale of our products in certain European countries is subject to the rules and regulations of the European Union, which may be interpreted differently among the countries within the European Union. In other markets outside the U.S., we may be required to obtain approvals, licenses or certifications from a country’s Ministry of Health or comparable agency before we begin operations or the marketing of products in that country. Approvals or licenses may be conditioned on reformulation of our products for a particular market or may be unavailable for certain products or product ingredients. These regulations may limit our ability to enter, or continue to operate in certain markets outside the U.S. As with the costs of regulatory compliance in the U.S., foreign regulations require significant financial and operational resources to ensure compliance, and we cannot provide assurances we will always be in compliance despite our best efforts to do so or that being in compliance will not become prohibitively costly to our business. Our failure to maintain regulatory compliance within and outside the U.S. could impact our ability to sell our products and thus, adversely impact our financial position and results of operations.

Intellectual Property

Trademarks. We have developed and use trademarks in our business, particularly relating to corporate, brand and product names. We own 45 trademark registrations; including 11 registrations in the U.S. Six of these U.S. registrations are incontestable. Federal registration of a trademark in the United States affords the owner nationwide exclusive trademark rights in the registered mark and the ability to prevent subsequent users from using the same or similar mark. However, to the extent any other business operator has acquired trademark rights in a mark by its consistent use of such mark in connection with similar goods or services in a particular geographic area, the nationwide rights conferred by federal registration can be subject to that user’s prior established non-statutory (“Common Law”) rights in that geographic area. In addition, rights in a registered mark are dependent upon the continued use of the mark in connection with the goods and/or services set forth in the registration.

We have 34 foreign trademark registrations covering 41 countries including registrations for CarnoSyn and SR CarnoSyn in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Cuba, the European Union Intellectual Property Office, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Poland, and South Korea. Registrations have also been obtained for CarnoSyn® and the SR CarnoSyn® logos in Switzerland. We currently have two U.S. trademark applications pending and three international applications pending. We also claim common law ownership and protection of certain unregistered trademarks and service marks based upon our continued use of the marks under common law. In some countries, such as the United States, Common Law offers protection of a mark within the particular geographic area in which it is continually and deliberately used.

We believe our registered and unregistered trademarks constitute valuable assets, adding to the recognition of our products and services in the marketplace. These and other proprietary rights have been and will continue to be important in enabling us to compete; however, we cannot provide assurances our current or future trademark applications will be granted or our current trademarks or registrations will be maintained.

Trade Secrets. We own certain intellectual property, including trade secrets, which we seek to protect, in part, through confidentiality agreements with employees and other parties. We regard our proprietary technology, trade secrets, trademarks and similar intellectual property as critical to our success, and we rely on a combination of trade secrets, contract, patent, copyright and trademark law (including established but non-statutory law) to establish and protect the rights in our products and technology. The laws of certain foreign countries may not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the U.S.

Patents and Patent Licenses. We currently own eleven U.S. patents and 9 corresponding non-U.S. patents registered in countries throughout North America, Europe and Asia. We also have pending applications in several countries. All of these patents and patent rights relate to the ingredient known as beta-alanine. Certain of these patents were assigned to NAI and we make certain ongoing royalty payments to the prior owners of the patents. The royalty payments and licenses are expected to continue until the expiration of the patents. We also sell beta-alanine, and license our patent and trademark rights related to beta-alanine. Some of our patents extend as far as through 2036.

Licensing, royalties, raw material sales, and revenues we have received associated with the sale and licensing of beta-alanine under the CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® trade names were primarily related to the direct sale of the raw material beta-alanine and totaled $16.2 million in fiscal 2022. We incurred intellectual property litigation and patent compliance expenses of approximately $0.2 million during fiscal 2022 primarily in connection with our efforts to procure and protect our proprietary rights and patent estate. We expect to continue to incur these types of litigation and compliance expenses during fiscal 2023.

Employees

As of June 30, 2022, we employed 294 full-time employees in the U.S., three of whom held executive management positions. Of the remaining full-time employees, 50 were employed in research, laboratory and quality control, 16 in sales and marketing, and 225 in manufacturing and administration. From time to time we use temporary personnel to help us meet shorter-term operating requirements. These positions typically are in manufacturing and manufacturing support. As of June 30, 2022, we had six temporary personnel.

As of June 30, 2022, NAIE employed an additional 95 full-time employees and 7 temporary employees. Most of these positions were in the areas of manufacturing and manufacturing support.

In response to COVID-19, the state of California has taken measures intended to expand the availability of workers’ compensation or to change the presumptions applicable to workers compensation measures. These actions may increase our exposure to workers’ compensation claims and increase our cost of insurance. We are experiencing a shortage of associates and applicants to fill staffing requirements at our U.S. manufacturing facilities due to the current labor shortage affecting manufacturing businesses. This has adversely affected the operating efficiency of our manufacturing facilities. The steps we have taken to address the labor shortage at our manufacturing facilities include hosting hiring events, paying retention bonuses, offering enhanced wages and paying referral bonuses.

Our employees are not represented by a collective bargaining agreement and we have not experienced any work stoppages as a result of labor disputes. We believe our relationship with our employees is good. We cannot assure this will continue in the future.

Seasonality

In addition to general economic factors, we are impacted by seasonal factors and trends, such as major cultural events and vacation patterns. We manufacture and sell products to customers that operate in many different countries throughout the world and these seasonal factors vary by region. Although we believe the impact of seasonality on our consolidated results of operations is minimal, our quarterly results may vary significantly in the future due to the timing of private-label contract manufacturing and CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine raw material orders. We cannot provide assurances future revenue trends will follow historical patterns. The market price of our common stock may be adversely affected by these seasonal factors.

Financial Information about Our Business Segments and Geographic Areas

Our operations are comprised of two reportable segments:

Our private-label contract manufacturing products are sold both in the U.S. and in markets outside the U.S., including Europe, Australia, Asia, Mexico, and Canada. Our primary markets outside the U.S. are Europe and Asia. Our patent and trademark licensing activities are primarily based in the U.S.

For additional financial information, including financial information about our business segment and geographic areas, please see the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 of this report.

Our activities in markets outside the U.S. are subject to political, economic and other risks in the countries in which our products are sold and in which we operate. For more information about these and other risks, please see Item 1A in this report.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

When evaluating our business and future prospects, you should carefully review and consider the risks described below in conjunction with other information in this report and in other reports and documents we file with the SEC. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional material risks and uncertainties, not presently known to us, or that we currently see as immaterial, may also occur or become material. If any of the following risks or any additional risks and uncertainties actually occur or become material, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be seriously harmed. In that event, the market price of our common stock could decline and our stockholders could lose all or a portion of the value of their investment in our common stock.

Risks Related to the Company’s Industry and Business

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted worldwide economic conditions and could have a material adverse effect on our operations and business. 

While our facilities have been able to continue to operate, the global COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions in supply chains, affecting production and sales across a range of industries. While the disruptions are currently expected to be temporary, there is considerable uncertainty around the duration and the impact of these disruptions.

The extent of the impact of COVID-19 on our operational and financial performance will depend on the on-going and future impact of the pandemic on our customers, vendors, and availability of labor as well as the potential impact of future expanded local, state, or federal restrictions, all of which are uncertain and are difficult to predict.

While we are unable to determine or predict the nature, duration, or scope of the overall impact the COVID-19 pandemic will have on our business, results of operations, liquidity or capital resources, we believe we will be able to remain operational and our working capital and available credit facility will be sufficient for us to do so. However, there can be no assurance we will be able to obtain additional working capital in the amounts or in the timing that may become necessary, which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

A significant or prolonged economic downturn, could have, and at certain times in the past has had, a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

Our results of operations are affected by the level of business activity of our customers and licensees, which in turn is affected by the level of consumer demand for their products. A significant or prolonged economic downturn may adversely affect the disposable income of many consumers and may lower demand for the products we produce for our private-label contract manufacturing customers and products sold or manufactured by others using our licensed patent rights. Any decline in economic conditions in the U.S. and the various foreign markets in which our customers operate could negatively impact our customers’ businesses and our operations. A significant decline in consumer demand and the level of business activity of our customers, even if only due in part to general economic conditions, could have a material adverse effect on our revenues and profit margins.

Risks related to global economic instability, including global supply chain issues, inflation and fuel and energy costs may affect the Company's business.

In February 2022, armed conflict escalated between Russia and Ukraine. Management is monitoring the conflict in Ukraine and any broader economic effects from the crisis. Although Russia and Ukraine did not account for any of our net sales in FY 2022, recently imposed economic sanctions and export control measures by the U.S. and European Union against Russia have resulted in increased volatility in the availability and prices of raw materials that are produced in that region. There are further concerns regarding continued supply chain disruptions, consumer purchasing and consumption behavior, increases in global shipping expenses, greater volatility in foreign exchange and interest rates, increased energy costs, and other unforeseen business disruptions due to the current global geopolitical tensions, including relating to Ukraine. Additionally, escalation by Russia beyond Ukraine could adversely affect our European operations. We will continue to evaluate impacts of the conflict on our customers, suppliers, employees, and operations.

This conflict has created market uncertainty and volatility recently and this global economic uncertainty has negatively affected many industries, including the dietary supplement industry. Global financial conditions remain subject to sudden and rapid destabilizations in response to economic shocks. A slowdown in the financial markets or other economic conditions including but not limited to global supply chain issues, inflation, fuel and energy costs, business conditions, lack of available credit, the state of the financial markets, interest rates and tax rates, may adversely affect our growth. Future economic shocks may be precipitated by a number of causes, including a continued rise in the price of oil and other commodities, the volatility of raw material prices, geopolitical instability, terrorism, pandemics, the devaluation and volatility of global stock markets and natural disasters. Any sudden or rapid destabilization of global economic conditions could impact our ability to obtain equity or debt financing in the future on terms favorable to us or at all. In such an event, our operations and financial condition could be adversely impacted.

Prices and availability of commodities consumed or used in connection with raw materials we purchase or the operation of our manufacturing facilities, such as natural gas, diesel, oil and electricity, also fluctuate, and these fluctuations affect the costs of operations. These fluctuations can be unpredictable, can occur over short periods of time and may have a material adverse impact on our operating costs or the timing and costs of various projects.

Our industry is highly competitive and we may be unable to continue to compete effectively. Increased competition could adversely affect our financial condition.

The market for our products, and those of our customers, is highly competitive. Some of our competitors are larger than we are and have greater financial resources and broader name recognition than we do. Our competitors may be able to devote greater resources to research and development, marketing and other activities that could provide them with a competitive advantage. Our market has relatively low entry barriers and is highly sensitive to the introduction of new products that may rapidly capture significant market share. Our competitors may not stress the level of quality we provide and could manufacture with a lower level of quality at lower costs. Our competitors are largely private and not subject to the same disclosure requirements as a publicly traded company. If consumers do not perceive higher quality as worth a higher price, our revenue could suffer. Increased competition could result in price reductions, reduced profit margins or loss of market share, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. There can be no assurance we will be able to compete effectively in this intensely competitive environment.

Our business is subject to the effects of adverse publicity, which could negatively affect our sales and revenues.

Our business can be affected by adverse publicity or negative public perception about us, our competitors, our customers, our products, or our industry and competitors generally. Adverse publicity may include publicity about the nutritional supplements industry generally, the efficacy, safety and quality of nutritional supplements and other health care products or ingredients in general or our products or ingredients specifically, and regulatory investigations, regardless of whether these investigations involve us or the business practices or products of our competitors, or our customers. Any adverse publicity or negative public perception could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected if any of our products or any similar products distributed by other companies are alleged to be or are proved to be harmful to consumers or to have unanticipated and unwanted health consequences.

Risks Related to Operations, Manufacturing, and Technology

If we are unable to attract and retain qualified management personnel and key manufacturing personnel, our business may suffer.

Our executive officers and other management personnel along with key manufacturing positions are primarily responsible for our day-to-day operations. We believe our success depends largely on our ability to attract, retain and motivate highly qualified management and key manufacturing personnel. Competition for qualified individuals can be intense and has been increasing in recent years. We may not be able to hire additional qualified personnel in a timely manner or on terms that would not substantially increase our costs. Any inability to retain a skilled professional management team and manufacturing team could adversely affect our ability to successfully execute our business strategies and achieve our goals and objectives.

Our manufacturing and third party fulfillment activities are subject to certain risks.

We manufacture the majority of our products at our manufacturing facilities in California and Switzerland. As a result, we are dependent on the uninterrupted and efficient operation of these facilities. Our manufacturing operations, including those of our suppliers, are subject to power failures, blackouts, border shutdowns, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, human error, breakdown, failure or substandard performance of our facilities, our equipment, the improper installation or operation of equipment, terrorism, pandemics (including COVID-19), natural or other disasters, intentional acts of violence, and the need to comply with the requirements or directives of governmental agencies, including but not limited to the FDA. In addition, we may in the future determine to expand or relocate our facilities, which may result in slowdowns or delays in our operations. While we have implemented and regularly evaluate various emergency, contingency and disaster recovery plans and we maintain business interruption insurance, there can be no assurance the occurrence of these or any other operational problems at our facilities in California or Switzerland would not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, there can be no assurance our contingency plans will prove to be adequate or successful if needed or our insurance will continue to be available at a reasonable cost or, if available, will be adequate to cover any losses that we may incur from an interruption in our manufacturing and distribution operations. We recently acquired a warehouse and distribution facility in Carlsbad, California, and are currently converting it into a dedicated high volume powder blending and packaging facility while also providing additional raw material storage capacity. There can be no assurance our conversion plans will be completed timely or at the cost we estimate, or that we will obtain sufficient business from our clients to effectively utilize the facility and our investment therein.

We outsource our beta-alanine fulfillment and distribution activities as well as certain manufacturing activities. The operation of the third party service provider’s facilities is subject to the interruption risk and other risks similar to those described above for our facilities and there can be no assurance these interruptions or any other operational problem at such third party’s facilities would not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

If we or our private-label contract manufacturing customers expand into additional markets outside the U.S. or our or their sales in markets outside the U.S. increase, our business could become increasingly subject to political, economic, regulatory and other risks in those markets, which could adversely affect our business.

Our future growth may depend, in part, on our ability and the ability of our private-label contract manufacturing customers, to expand into additional markets outside the U.S. or to improve sales in markets outside the U.S. There can be no assurance we or such customers will be able to expand in existing markets outside the U.S. or enter new markets on a timely basis, or that new markets outside the U.S. will be profitable. There are significant regulatory and legal barriers in markets outside the U.S. that must be overcome to enter and operate in such markets. We will be subject to the burden of complying with a wide variety of national and local laws, including multiple and possibly overlapping and conflicting laws. We may also experience difficulties adapting to new cultures, business customs and legal systems. Our sales and operations outside the U.S. are subject to political, economic and social uncertainties including, among others:

Any changes related to these and other factors could adversely affect our business, profitability and growth prospects. If we or our customers expand into additional markets outside the U.S. or improve sales in markets outside the U.S., these and other risks associated with operations outside the U.S. will likely increase.

The failure of our suppliers to supply quality materials in sufficient quantities, at a favorable price, and in a timely fashion could adversely affect the results of our operations.

We buy our raw materials from a limited number of suppliers. During fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, one of our suppliers represented more than 10% of our total raw material purchases. Additionally, we currently purchase all of our beta-alanine for our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® business from a single manufacturer located in Japan. Any disruption in their ability to source materials for or produce the amounts of beta-alanine needed to meet our requirements could have an adverse effect on our business.

The loss of any of our other major suppliers or of any supplier who provides us materials that are hard to obtain elsewhere at the same quality could adversely affect our business operations. Although we believe we could establish alternate sources for most of our raw materials, any delay in locating and establishing relationships with other sources could result in shortages of products we manufacture from such raw materials, with a resulting loss of sales and customers. In certain situations, we may be required to alter our products or with our customer’s consent to substitute different materials from alternative sources.

A shortage of raw materials or an unexpected interruption of supply could also result in higher prices for those materials. We have experienced increases in various raw material costs, transportation costs and the cost of petroleum-based raw materials and packaging supplies used in our business. Increasing pricing pressures on raw materials and other products have continued throughout fiscal 2022 as a result of limited supplies of various ingredients, the effects of higher labor and transportation costs, and the impact of COVID-19. We expect these upward pressures to continue through fiscal 2023. Although we may be able to raise our prices in response to significant increases in the cost of raw materials, we may not be able to raise prices sufficiently or quickly enough to offset the negative effects such cost increases could have on our results of operations or financial condition.

There can be no assurance suppliers will provide the quality raw materials needed by us in the quantities requested or at a price we are willing to pay. Because we do not control the actual production of these raw materials, we are also subject to delays caused by interruption in production of materials including but not limited to those resulting from conditions outside of our control, such as pandemics, weather, transportation interruptions, labor shortages, strikes, terrorism, natural disasters, and other catastrophic events.

In addition, our efforts to maintain or increase sales of CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® are substantially dependent on the availability of the raw material beta-alanine and sales of beta-alanine or products incorporating beta-alanine. The availability of beta-alanine, and thus sales of such raw material and products using such material, could be negatively impacted by any shortages, interruptions and similar events described above, which could in turn adversely affect the amount of revenue and profit margin we earn from the sale of beta-alanine.

Risks Related to Customer Concentration

Because we derive a significant portion of our revenues from a limited number of customers, our revenues would be adversely affected by the loss of a major customer or a significant change in their business, personnel or the timing or amount of their sales to their customers and their orders from us.

We have in the past and expect to continue to derive a significant portion of our revenues from a relatively limited number of customers. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, sales to our three largest customers were approximately 72% of our consolidated net sales. We cannot predict with any certainty if sales to these customers will increase or decrease in the future.

Although no other customers represented more than 10% of our consolidated net sales, the loss of one of our largest customers, or other major customers, a significant decline in sales to any of our largest customers, a significant change in their business model or personnel, or in their ability to make payments when due, could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. The timing of our customers’ orders is impacted by, among other factors, their marketing programs, their customer demand, seasonality, their raw material suppliers we are sometimes required to use, their supply chain management, their entry into new markets and their new product introductions, all of which are outside of our control. All of these attributes have had and are expected to have a significant impact on our business in the future.

Our future growth and stability depends, in part, on our ability to diversify our sales. Our efforts to establish new sales from both existing customers and new customers could require significant initial investments, which may or may not result in higher overall sales and improved financial results.

Our business strategy depends in large part on our ability to develop new product sales from both current and new customer relationships. These activities often require a significant up-front investment including, among others, customized formulations, compliance with different regulatory schemes, product registrations, package design, product testing, pilot production runs, and the build-up of initial inventory. We may experience significant delays from the time we increase our operating expenses and make investments in inventory (and incur additional related carrying costs) until the time we generate net sales from new products or customers, and it is possible after incurring such expenditures we may not generate material revenue from new products or customers. If we incur significant expenses and investments in inventory that we are not able to recover, and we are not able to compensate for those expenses, our operating results would be adversely affected.

We currently derive significant revenues and income from sales of beta-alanine and from licensing our patents. Our ability to maintain or grow our sales of beta-alanine and license revenue from our other patents is contingent on our ability to continue to defend our patents, and commercialize the sale of beta-alanine under our instant release CarnoSyn® patents and trademark and our sustained release SR CarnoSyn® patents and trademark.

We own multiple patents and trademarks related to the use of beta-alanine in food and nutritional supplements. A majority of our revenue and income from this segment is currently derived from activity related to licensing our patents and other intellectual property associated with instant release beta-alanine, sold under our trade name CarnoSyn®. We have five patents for this version of CarnoSyn®, of which the latest expires in 2026. Our patent and trademark licensing revenue increased from $14.2 million in fiscal 2021 to $16.2 million in fiscal 2022 in part due to recovery of the sports nutrition industry after the reopening of gyms and athletic facilities and activities in accordance with easing COVID-19 guidelines for such activities. There is no assurance we will be successful maintaining our historical CarnoSyn® instant release beta-alanine sales levels or growing future sales volumes with our remaining CarnoSyn® instant release patent estate. If we are not successful it could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

We believe SR CarnoSyn® is a superior delivery system for CarnoSyn® beta-alanine based on its sustained release profile that allows for increased daily dosing and improved muscle retention of carnosine. Our patents related to SR CarnoSyn® extend through 2036 and we believe the introduction of SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine is an important step in the further commercialization of our patent estate. There can be no assurance we will be successful in getting the market to accept this new form of beta-alanine or that we will be successful launching new products utilizing SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine.

Risks Related to Regulations

Our products and manufacturing activities are subject to extensive government regulation, which could limit or prevent the sale of our products in some markets and could increase our costs.

The manufacturing, packaging, labeling, advertising, promotion, distribution, and sale of our products are subject to regulation by numerous national and local governmental agencies in the U.S. and in other countries. For example, we are required to comply with certain GMP’s and incur costs associated with the audit and certification of our facilities. Failure to comply with governmental regulations may result in, among other things, injunctions, product withdrawals, recalls, product seizures, fines, and criminal prosecutions. Any action of this type by a governmental agency could materially adversely affect our ability to successfully market our products and services. In addition, if such governmental agency has reason to believe the law is being violated (for example, if it believes we do not possess adequate substantiation for product claims), it can initiate an enforcement action. Governmental agency enforcement could result in orders requiring, among other things, limits on advertising, consumer redress, divestiture of assets, rescission of contracts, and such other relief as may be deemed necessary. Violation of these orders could result in substantial financial or other penalties. Any action by a governmental agency could materially adversely affect our ability and our customers’ ability to successfully market and continue selling the products involved.

Before commencing operations or marketing our products in markets outside the U.S., we are routinely required to obtain approvals, licenses, or certifications from a country’s ministry of health or comparable agency. Approvals or licensing may be conditioned on reformulation of products or even may be unavailable with respect to certain products or product ingredients. We must also comply with product labeling and packaging regulations that vary from country to country. Furthermore, the regulations of these countries may conflict with those in the U.S. and with each other. The sale of our products in certain European countries is subject to the rules and regulations of the European Union, which may be interpreted differently among the countries within the European Union. The cost of complying with these various and potentially conflicting regulations can be substantial and could adversely affect our results of operations.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, our operations have been subject to additional laws and regulations imposed by federal, state, and local governments primarily related to the ability of our employees to come to work and the safety measures that need to be in place in order for our facilities to remain operational. While we already had robust quality standards and procedures, we have had to constantly monitor these new regulations and implement additional procedures where necessary, including at times temperature checks, additional cleaning procedures, allowing administrative personnel to work remotely, etc. New or expanded regulations including any inability to continue qualifying as an essential business in the event of future government imposed lockdowns could adversely affect our results of operations.

We cannot predict the nature of any future laws, regulations, interpretations, or applications, nor can we determine what effect additional governmental regulations, when and if adopted, would have on our business. They could include new or revised requirements or restrictions related to the safe operation of our facilities due to the pandemic, or for the reformulation of certain products to meet new standards, the recall or discontinuance of certain products, additional compliance costs or record keeping requirements, expanded or different labeling, and additional scientific substantiation. Any or all of these requirements could have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Possible new tariffs on imported goods from China and elsewhere could adversely affect our business operations.

The United States has implemented increased tariffs on a wide range of goods and materials imported from China and other governments, in addition to tariffs previously imposed. These goods may include products, applications, and ingredients we or our customers require for their products, including beta-alanine. Our ability to maintain or increase CarnoSyn® sales and licensing revenue depends on the availability of the raw material beta-alanine. China and other governments have responded to the implementation of tariffs by the United States by imposing their own tariffs on certain American products. Continuing or increased tariffs could have a material adverse effect on our customer’s businesses, the availability of beta-alanine, and the cost of other raw materials we use in our customer’s products. While it is difficult to predict whether or how existing and additional potential tariffs will be imposed, or how tariffs will impact our business, we believe the imposition of additional tariffs by the U.S. or other governments on products we or our customers offer for sale, or ingredients we use in the products we manufacture could adversely impact our offerings and our customers, and could have an adverse impact on the availability of raw materials we purchase including beta-alanine from Japan.

Such results could adversely impact our ability to license our patents and trademarks, our ability to sell beta-alanine, and our customers’ ability to compete in the marketplace, resulting in reduced demand for our products, and products we manufacture for our customers. Additional tariffs imposed by any government on beta-alanine could have an adverse impact on the price we have to pay for beta-alanine and the availability of beta-alanine. Any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Risks Related to Litigation

We could be exposed to product liability claims or other litigation, which may be costly and could materially adversely affect our operations.

We could face financial liability due to product liability claims if the use of our products results in significant loss or injury. Additionally, the manufacture and sale of our products involves risk of injury to consumers from tampering by unauthorized third parties or product contamination. We could be exposed to future product liability claims that include, among others, assertions that: our products contain contaminants; we provide consumers with inadequate instructions about product use; or we provide inadequate warning about side effects or interactions of our products with other substances. Even if we were to prevail in any such claims, the cost of litigation and settlement could be significant.

We maintain product liability insurance coverage, including primary product liability and excess liability coverage. While we expect to be able to continue our product liability insurance, there can be no assurance we will in fact be able to continue such insurance coverage, or that such insurance coverage will be adequate to cover any liability we may incur, or that our insurance policies will continue to be available at a cost similar to our cost today, or even an economically reasonable cost.

Additionally, it is possible one or more of our insurers could exclude from our coverage certain ingredients used in our products. In such event, we may have to stop using those ingredients or rely on indemnification or similar arrangements with our customers who wish to continue to include those ingredients in their products. A substantial increase in our product liability risk or the loss of customers or product lines, or the failure of a customer to honor indemnification agreements could each have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

We may continue to incur significant costs in the course of creating and defending our intellectual property. We may be unable to protect our intellectual property rights or may inadvertently infringe on the intellectual property rights of others.

We possess and may possess in the future certain proprietary technology, trade secrets, trademarks, trade names, licenses, patents, and similar intellectual property. We may continue to incur significant patent and trademark litigation costs associated with creating and defending our intellectual property. During fiscal 2022, we incurred approximately $0.2 million in patent litigation and prosecution expense and expect these expenses to be between $0.1 million and $0.3 million during fiscal 2023. There is no assurance we will be able to create new intellectual property, protect our existing intellectual property adequately or that our intellectual property rights will be upheld. If as we have been in the past, we are again subject to legal proceedings seeking to invalidate our patent rights, such proceedings or the success of the efforts thereby could have a material adverse impact upon our financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, the laws of certain foreign countries may not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as do the laws of the U.S. Additional litigation in the U.S. or abroad may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights, to determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others or to defend against claims of infringement. Such litigation, even if ultimately determined in our favor, could result in substantial additional costs and diversion of resources and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. If infringement claims are asserted against us, we may seek to obtain a license to use the claiming third party’s intellectual property rights. There can be no assurance such a license would be available at all or available on terms acceptable or favorable to us.

Risks Related to Insider Ownership and Corporate Structure

If certain provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation, Bylaws and Delaware law are triggered, the market for our shares may decrease.

Certain provisions in our Certificate of Incorporation, Bylaws and Delaware corporate law may discourage unsolicited proposals to acquire our business, even if such proposals would benefit our stockholders. Those provisions include one that authorizes our Board of Directors, without stockholder approval, to issue up to 500,000 shares of preferred stock having such rights, preferences, and privileges, including voting rights, as the Board of Directors designates. The rights of our common stockholders will be subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of holders of any preferred stock that may be issued in the future. Any or all of these provisions could delay, deter or prevent a takeover of our company and could lower the price investors are willing to pay for our common stock and the number of investors willing to own our common stock.

Collectively, our officers and directors own a significant amount of our common stock, giving them influence over corporate transactions and other matters and potentially limiting the influence of other stockholders on important policy and management issues.

Our officers and directors, together with their families and affiliates, beneficially owned approximately 20% of our outstanding shares of common stock as of June 30, 2022. Approximately 16% of the outstanding shares of common stock are beneficially owned by Mark LeDoux, and his family and affiliates. Mr. LeDoux is our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. As a result, our officers and directors, and in particular Mr. LeDoux, could influence such business matters as the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions.

Various transactions could be delayed, deferred, or prevented without the approval of stockholders, including the following:

There can be no assurance that conflicts of interest will not arise with respect to the officers and directors who own shares of our common stock or that conflicts will be resolved in a manner favorable to us or our other stockholders.

Risks Related to Future Acquisitions

We may pursue acquisitions of other companies that, if not successful, could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We may pursue acquisitions of companies we believe could complement or expand our business, augment our market coverage, provide us with important relationships or otherwise offer us growth opportunities. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, including the following:

There can be no assurance that acquisitions we may pursue will be successful. If we pursue an acquisition but are not successful in completing it, or if we complete an acquisition but are not successful in integrating an acquired company’s employees, products or operations successfully, our business, financial position or results of operations could be adversely affected.

General Risk Factors

Our operating results will vary. Fluctuations in our operating results may adversely affect the share price of our common stock.

Our net sales decreased during fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021, and there can be no assurance our net sales will improve in the near term, or we will earn a profit in any given year. We experienced a net profit in fiscal 2022 but may incur losses in the future. Our operating results may fluctuate from year to year and/or from quarter to quarter due to various factors including differences related to the timing of revenues and expenses for financial reporting purposes and other factors described in this report. At times, these fluctuations may be significant. We anticipate generating positive net income in fiscal 2023, although there is no assurance we will be able to do so. Fluctuations in our operating results may adversely affect the share price of our common stock.

Our stock price could fluctuate significantly.

Stock prices in general can be volatile and ours is no different. The trading price of our stock may fluctuate in response to the following, as well as other, factors including but not limited to factors outside of our control:

The market for our stock has historically experienced significant price and volume fluctuations. There can be no assurance that an active market in our stock will continue to exist or that the price of our common stock will not decline. Our future operating results may be below the expectations of securities analysts and investors. If this were to occur, the price of our common stock could decline, perhaps substantially.

From time to time our shares may be listed for trading on one or more foreign exchanges, with or without our prior knowledge or consent. Certain foreign exchanges may have less stringent listing requirements, rules and enforcement procedures than the Nasdaq Global Market or other markets in the U.S., which may increase the potential for manipulative trading practices to occur on such foreign exchanges. These practices, or the perception by investors that such practices could occur, may increase the volatility of our stock price or result in a decline in our stock price, which in some cases could be significant.

We may not be able to raise additional capital or obtain additional financing if needed.

It is possible our cash from operations could become insufficient to meet our working capital needs and/or to implement our business strategies. In such an event, there can be no assurance our existing line of credit would be sufficient to meet our working capital needs, if the line has any credit still available when needed. Furthermore, if we fail to maintain certain loan covenants, we may no longer have access to our credit line. Under the terms of our credit facility, there are limits on our ability to create, incur or assume additional indebtedness without the approval of our lender. Our credit line terminates in May 2024 and there is no guarantee we will be able to extend or renew this credit line on favorable terms or at all.

We may consider issuing additional debt or equity securities in the future to fund potential acquisitions or investments, to refinance existing debt, or for general corporate purposes. If we issue equity or convertible debt securities to raise additional funds, our existing stockholders may experience dilution, and the new equity or debt securities may have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of our existing stockholders. If we incur additional debt, it may increase our leverage relative to our earnings or to our equity capitalization, requiring us to pay additional interest expenses and potentially lowering our credit ratings. At any given time, it could be difficult for us to raise capital due to a variety of factors, some of which may be outside of our control, including a tightening of credit markets, overall poor performance of stock markets, and/or an economic slowdown in the U.S. or other countries, or in the businesses of our customers. There is no assurance we would be able to market such security issuances on favorable terms, or at all, in which case, if we did not have any alternate funds we might not be able to develop or enhance our products, execute our business plan, take advantage of future opportunities, respond to competitive pressures or meet unanticipated customer requirements.

Our inability to raise additional capital or to obtain additional financing if needed could negatively affect our ability to implement our business strategies and meet our goals. This, in turn, could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

This table summarizes our facilities as of June 30, 2022. We believe our facilities are adequate to meet our operating requirements for the foreseeable future.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

From time to time, we become involved in various investigations, claims and legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of our business. These matters may relate to intellectual property, product liability, employment, tax, regulation, contract or other matters. The resolution of these matters as they arise will be subject to various uncertainties and, even if such claims are without merit, could result in the expenditure of significant financial and managerial resources. While unfavorable outcomes are possible, based on available information, we generally do not believe the resolution of these matters, even if unfavorable, will result in a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, or results of operations. Our evaluation of the likely impact of these actions could change in the future and we could have unfavorable outcomes we do not expect. An unexpected settlement expense or an unexpected unfavorable outcome of a matter could adversely impact our results of operations.

As of September 21, 2022, neither NAI nor NAIE were a party to any material pending legal proceeding nor was any of our property the subject of any material pending legal proceeding. We are currently involved in several matters in the ordinary course of our business.

There is no assurance NAI will prevail in any litigation matters or that litigation expenses will not be greater than anticipated.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR OUR COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Market Information

Our common stock trades on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “NAII.” Below are the high and low sales prices of our common stock as reported on the Nasdaq Global Market for each quarter of the fiscal years ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:

Holders

As of September 20, 2022, there were approximately 185 stockholders of record of our common stock. On that same date, the last sales price of our common stock as reported on NASDAQ was $11.56 per share.

Dividends

We have never paid a dividend on our common stock and we do not intend to pay a dividend in the foreseeable future. Our current policy is to retain all earnings to provide funds for operations and future growth. Additionally, under the terms of our credit facility, we are precluded from paying a dividend while such facility is in place without a waiver from our lender.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022, we did not sell any unregistered securities.

Repurchases

During the quarter ended June 30, 2022, we repurchased 37,305 shares of our common stock at a total cost of $0.4 million (including commissions and transaction fees) as set forth below:

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The following table sets forth information regarding outstanding options and shares reserved for future issuance under our existing equity compensation plans as of June 30, 2022:

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide Item 6 disclosure in this Annual Report.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION

The following discussion and analysis is intended to help you understand our financial condition and results of operations as of June 30, 2022 and 2021 and for each of the last two fiscal years then ended. You should read the following discussion and analysis together with our audited consolidated financial statements and the notes to the consolidated financial statements included under Item 8 in this report. Our future financial condition and results of operations will vary from our historical financial condition and results of operations described below based on a variety of factors. You should carefully review the risks described under Item 1A and elsewhere in this report, which identify certain important factors that could cause our future financial condition and results of operations to vary.

Executive Overview

The following overview does not address all of the matters covered in the other sections of this Item 7 or other items in this report or contain all of the information that may be important to our stockholders or the investing public. You should read this overview in conjunction with the other sections of this Item 7, the financial statements and accompanying notes, and this report.

Our primary business activity is providing private-label contract manufacturing services to companies that market and distribute vitamins, minerals, herbs and other nutritional supplements, as well as other health care products, to consumers both within and outside the U.S. Historically, our revenue has been largely dependent on sales to two or three private-label contract manufacturing customers and subject to variations in the timing of such customers’ orders, which in turn is impacted by such customers’ internal marketing programs, supply chain management, entry into new markets, new product introductions, the demand for such customers’ products, and general industry and economic conditions. Our revenue also includes raw material sales, royalty and licensing revenue generated from our patent estate pursuant to license and supply agreements with third parties for the distribution and use of the ingredient known as beta-alanine sold under our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® trademarks.

A cornerstone of our business strategy is to achieve long-term growth and profitability and to diversify our sales base. We have sought and expect to continue to seek to diversify our sales by developing relationships with additional, quality-oriented, private-label contract manufacturing customers, and commercializing our patent estate through sales of beta-alanine under our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® trade names, royalties from license agreements, and potentially additional contract manufacturing opportunities with licensees.

During fiscal 2022, our consolidated net sales were 4% lower than in fiscal 2021. Private-label contract manufacturing sales decreased 6% primarily due to lower sales to our largest customer. Sales to this customer decreased 40% as compared to the prior year with a majority of the decrease associated with an inventory reduction program mostly related to their European business. The decrease in sales to our largest customer was partially offset by increased sales to other existing customers and a new customer. Revenue concentration from our largest private-label contract manufacturing customer as a percentage of our total net sales decreased to 32% in fiscal 2022 from 51% in fiscal 2021. We expect this percentage to remain consistent in fiscal 2023.

During fiscal 2022, patent and trademark licensing revenue increased 14% to $16.2 million as compared to $14.2 million for fiscal 2021. The increase in patent and trademark licensing revenue was primarily due to sales to new customers, higher average sales prices, and increased shipments to existing customers related in part to athletic activities and gyms reopening in accordance with easing COVID-19 restrictions across the USA as compared to significant restrictions in athletic activities in the prior year. We believe the increase experienced in fiscal year 2022 included larger than usual orders associated with our customer’s refilling their distribution channels and we anticipate these sales levels will normalize to historical trend in fiscal 2023.

We continue to invest in research and development for our SR CarnoSyn® sustained release delivery system. We believe SR CarnoSyn® may provide a unique opportunity within the growing Wellness and Healthy Aging markets. We believe our efforts to refine our formulations and product offerings will be positively received and result in significant opportunity for increased SR CarnoSyn® sales.

To protect our CarnoSyn® business, we incurred litigation and patent compliance expenses of approximately $0.2 million during fiscal 2022 and $1.2 million during fiscal 2021. The decrease in these legal expenses on a year over year basis was primarily due to the successful resolution of several cases that were settled. We currently expect our litigation and patent compliance expenses to be consistent with the amount incurred in fiscal 2022. Our ability to maintain or further increase our beta-alanine royalty and licensing revenue will depend in large part on our ability to develop a market for our sustained release form of beta-alanine marketed under our SR CarnoSyn® trademark, maintain our patent rights, the availability and the cost of the raw material when and in the amounts needed, the ability to expand distribution of beta-alanine to new and existing customers, and continued compliance by third parties with our license agreements and our patent, trademark and other intellectual property rights. During fiscal 2023, we will continue our sales and marketing activities to consumers, customers, potential customers, and brand owners on multiple platforms to promote and reinforce the features and benefits of utilizing CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® beta-alanine.

Based on our current sales order volumes, sales backlog and forecasts we have received from our customers, we anticipate our fiscal 2023 consolidated net sales will increase between 10.0% and 15.0% as compared to fiscal 2022. We also anticipate we will generate operating income between 5.0% and 7.0% of net sales for our fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. While sales are expected to increase during fiscal 2023 when compared to fiscal 2022, we anticipate operating income will be negatively impacted by changes in sales mix and increased operational costs primarily impacted by increased labor and supply chain costs and other inflationary factors. We anticipate current inflation rates will have a negative impact on our fiscal 2023 operations and we are monitoring the drivers and working with suppliers and customers to mitigate the impact on our results. We are actively working to identify additional sales opportunities and we are evaluating various options for minimizing the impact of continuing inflationary pressures. There can be no assurance our expectations will result in the currently anticipated increase in net sales or operating income levels.

Impact of COVID-19 on Our Business

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted, and is likely to continue to result, in significant economic disruption and has and will likely continue to affect our business. Significant uncertainty exists concerning the magnitude of the impact and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our facilities, located both in the United States and Europe, continue to operate as an essential and critical manufacturer in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, however, there can be no assurance our facilities will continue to operate without interruption. Factors that derive from COVID-19 and the accompanying response, and that have or may negatively impact sales and gross margin in the future include, but are not limited to the following:

We will continue to actively monitor the situation and may take further actions to alter our business operations as may be required by federal, state or local authorities or that we determine are in the best interests of our employees, customers, suppliers and shareholders. While we are unable to determine or predict the nature, duration, or scope of the overall impact the COVID-19 pandemic will have on our business, results of operations, liquidity or capital resources, we believe we will be able to remain operational and our working capital will be sufficient for us to remain operational even as the longer-term consequences of this pandemic become known.

During fiscal 2023, we plan to continue our focus on:

Discussion of Critical Accounting Estimates 

We have identified the following as our most critical accounting estimates, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results, and that require management’s most subjective and complex judgments. Information regarding our other significant accounting estimates and policies are disclosed in Note A, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition — Revenue is measured as the net amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for fulfilling one or more performance obligations.  For certain contracts with volume rebates, our estimates of future sales used to assess the volume rebate estimates are subject to a high degree of judgement and may differ from actual sales due to, among other things, changes in customer orders and raw material availability.

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth selected consolidated operating results for each of the last two fiscal years, presented as a percentage of net sales (dollars in thousands).

Private-label contract manufacturing sales decreased 6% primarily due to lower sales to our largest customer. Sales to this customer decreased 40% as compared to the prior year with a majority of the decrease associated with an inventory reduction program mostly related to their European business. The decrease in sales to our largest customer was partially offset by increased sales to other existing customers and a new customer. Revenue concentration from our largest private-label contract manufacturing customer as a percentage of our total net sales decreased to 32% in fiscal 2022 from 51% in fiscal 2021. We expect this percentage to remain consistent in fiscal 2023.

Net sales from our patent and trademark licensing segment increased 14% during fiscal 2022. The increase in patent and trademark licensing revenue was primarily due to sales to new customers, higher average sales prices, and increased shipments to existing customers related in part to athletic activities and gyms reopening in accordance with easing COVID-19 restrictions across the USA as compared to significant restrictions in athletic activities in the prior year. We believe the increase experienced in fiscal year 2022 included larger than usual orders associated with our customer’s refilling their distribution channels and we anticipate these sales levels will normalize to historical trend in fiscal 2023.

The change in gross profit margin for the year ended June 30, 2022, was as follows:

Selling, general and administrative expenses were flat in fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021 at $16.8 million.

Other loss, net, decreased $1.5 million during fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021. The decreases were primarily due to favorable fiscal 2022 foreign exchange revaluation activity associated with our balance sheet and the fluctuations in unhedged foreign currency rates when compared to the same activity in fiscal 2021.

Our income tax expense increased $1.6 million during fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021. The increase was primarily due to discrete tax benefit items recorded in fiscal 2021, with no corresponding discrete tax benefits recorded in fiscal 2022.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary sources of liquidity and capital resources are cash flows provided by operating activities and the availability of borrowings under our credit facilities. Net cash provided by operating activities was $11.9 million in fiscal 2022 compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $20.8 million in fiscal 2021.

At June 30, 2022, changes in accounts receivable, consisting primarily of amounts due from our private-label contract manufacturing customers and our patent and trademark raw material sales activities, provided $0.6 million in cash compared to using $0.8 million in fiscal 2021. The change in cash used by accounts receivable during fiscal 2022 primarily resulted from timing of sales and the related collections at the end of fiscal 2022 as compared to fiscal 2021. Days sales outstanding increased to 38 days during fiscal 2022 compared to 36 days during fiscal 2021, primarily due to customer sales mix and timing of sales and the related collections.

Inventory used $5.5 million in cash during fiscal 2022 compared to providing $1.0 million in fiscal 2021. The change in cash activity from inventory was primarily related to the difference in amount and timing of sales at the end of fiscal 2022 and anticipated sales for the beginning of fiscal 2023 as compared to the same drivers at the end of fiscal 2021. Changes in accounts payable and accrued liabilities provided $3.1 million in cash during fiscal 2022 compared to providing $1.9 million during fiscal 2021. The change in cash flow activity related to accounts payable and accrued liabilities is primarily due to the timing of inventory receipts and payments.

Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2022 was $26.5 million compared to $5.0 million in fiscal 2021. The primary reason for the change was due to the purchase of a new manufacturing and warehouse facility in Carlsbad, CA during the first quarter of fiscal 2022 along with expenditures made related to our on-going efforts to retrofit this facility with powder storage and processing capabilities.

Cash provided by financing activities in fiscal 2022 was $4.3 million, compared to $14.1 million used in fiscal 2021. The activity in fiscal 2022 includes $10.0 million in borrowings used to finance a portion of the purchase of our new manufacturing and warehouse facility in Carlsbad, CA and treasury stock repurchases while fiscal 2021 included treasury stock repurchases and a payment of $10.0 million against our line of credit that was originally withdrawn as a measure to provide our business with liquidity out of an abundance of caution due to the COVID-19 pandemic during fiscal 2020.

At June 30, 2022 we had no outstanding balances due on our line of credit and had $20.0 million available with this loan facility and we owed $9.8 million on a term loan that was borrowed as part of the purchase of our new Carlsbad manufacturing facility in August 2021. At June 30, 2021 we had no outstanding balances due and $20.0 million available in connection with our loan facility.

During fiscal 2022 we were in compliance with all of the financial and other covenants required under our Credit Agreement. Refer to Note F, "Debt," in Item 8 of this report, for terms of such Credit Agreement and additional information.

As of June 30, 2022, we had $21.8 million in cash and cash equivalents. Of these amounts, $17.8 million of cash and cash equivalents were held by NAIE. Overall, we believe our available cash, cash equivalents, potential cash flows from operations, and credit facility will be sufficient to fund our current working capital needs and capital expenditures through at least the next 12 months.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of June 30, 2022, we did not have any significant off-balance sheet debt nor did we have any transactions, arrangements, obligations (including contingent obligations) or other relationships with any unconsolidated entities or other persons, in each case that have or are reasonably likely to have a material current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, capital resources, or significant components of revenue or expenses material to investors.

Inflation

During fiscal 2022 we experienced price increases in product raw material and operational costs related to inflationary pressures. We currently believe increasing raw material and product cost pricing pressures will continue throughout fiscal 2023 as a result of limited supplies of various ingredients, the effects of higher labor and transportation costs, rising interest rates, higher global fuel and energy costs, and the continued impact of COVID-19. We anticipate current inflation rates will have a negative impact on our fiscal 2023 operations and we are monitoring the drivers and working with suppliers and customers to mitigate the impact on our results.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

A discussion of recent accounting pronouncements is included under Note A in the notes to our consolidated financial statements which are included under Item 8 of this report.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

As a smaller reporting company, we are not required to provide Item 7A disclosure in this Annual Report.

Natural Alternatives International, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

As of June 30

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

Natural Alternatives International, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Operations And Comprehensive Income

For the Years Ended June 30

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data) 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

Natural Alternatives International, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

For the Years Ended June 30

(Dollars in thousands)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

Natural Alternatives International, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the Years Ended June 30

(in thousands)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

A. Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Organization

We provide private-label contract manufacturing services to companies that market and distribute vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutritional supplements, as well as other health care products, to consumers both within and outside the U.S. We also seek to commercialize our patent and trademark estate related to the ingredient known as beta-alanine sold under our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® tradenames through direct raw material sales and various license and similar arrangements.

Subsidiaries

On January 22, 1999, Natural Alternatives International Europe S.A., a Swiss Corporation (NAIE) was formed as our wholly-owned subsidiary, based in Manno, Switzerland. In September 1999, NAIE opened a manufacturing facility and currently possesses manufacturing capability in encapsulation, powders, tablets, finished goods packaging, quality control laboratory testing, warehousing, distribution and administration.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Natural Alternatives International, Inc. (NAI) and our wholly-owned subsidiary, NAIE. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The functional currency of NAIE, our foreign subsidiary, is the U.S. Dollar. Certain accounts of NAIE have been translated at either current or historical exchange rates, as appropriate, with gains and losses included in the consolidated statements of operations.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

On December 18, 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. This new standard eliminates certain exceptions in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 740 related to the approach for intraperiod tax allocation, the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period, and the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. It also clarifies and simplifies other aspects of the accounting for income taxes. This standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted in any interim period within that year. This ASU was effective for us beginning in our first quarter of fiscal 2022. This ASU did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting. This ASU provides optional expedient and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions affected by reference rate reform if certain criteria are met. In response to the concerns about structural risks of interbank offered rates ("IBORs") and, particularly, the risk of cessation of the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"), regulators in several jurisdictions around the world have undertaken reference rate reform initiatives to identify alternative reference rates that are more observable or transaction based and less susceptible to manipulation. The ASU provides companies with optional guidance to ease the potential accounting burden associated with transitioning away from reference rates that are expected to be discontinued. We adopted this ASU in fiscal 2022. This ASU did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Recently Issued Accounting and Regulatory Pronouncements

On March 28, 2022, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2022-01, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Fair Value Hedging-Portfolio Layer Method. This new standard clarifies the guidance in ASC 815 on fair value hedge accounting of interest rate risk for portfolios of financial assets. The ASU amends the guidance in ASU 2017-123 (released on August 28, 2017) that, among other things, established the “last-of-layer” method for making the fair value hedge accounting for these portfolios more accessible. ASU 2022-01 renames that method the “portfolio layer” method and addresses feedback from stakeholders regarding its application. This standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted in any interim period within that year. This ASU will be adopted in our first quarter of fiscal 2023. We do not expect this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We use a three-level hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect our assumptions about the inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability and are developed based on the best information available under the circumstances.

The fair value hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the source of inputs. In general, fair values determined by Level 1 inputs use quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. We classify cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities balances as Level 1 assets. The approximate fair value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and short-term borrowings is equal to book value due to the short-term nature of these items. Fair values determined by Level 2 inputs are based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active and models for which all significant inputs are observable or can be corroborated, either directly or indirectly by observable market data. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. These include certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.

Except for cash and cash equivalents, as of June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021, we did not have any financial assets or liabilities classified as Level 1. We classify derivative forward exchange contracts as Level 2 assets and liabilities. The fair values were determined by obtaining pricing from our bank and corroborating those values with a third-party bank or pricing service.

Fair value of derivative instruments classified as Level 2 assets and liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):

We also classify any outstanding line of credit and term loan balance as a Level 2 liability, as the fair value is based on inputs that can be derived from information available in publicly quoted markets. As of June 30, 2022, and June 30, 2021, we did not have any financial assets or liabilities classified as Level 3. We did not transfer any assets or liabilities between these levels during fiscal 2021 or fiscal 2022.

Accounts Receivable

We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and adjust credit limits based on payment history and customer credit-worthiness. An allowance for estimated doubtful accounts is maintained based on historical experience, including identified customer credit issues. We monitor collections regularly and adjust the allowance for doubtful accounts as necessary to recognize any changes in credit exposure. Upon conclusion that a receivable is uncollectible, we record the respective amount as a charge against allowance for doubtful accounts. To date, such doubtful accounts reserves, in the aggregate, have been adequate to cover collection losses.

Customer Deposits

For certain customers we have contract terms where the customer pays a certain portion of their orders as prepayment. We treat this as a customer deposit liability and do not record revenue until we ship the product to the customer. As of June 30, 2022 we had $140,000 in customer deposits. As of June 30, 2021 our customer deposit balance was $1.7 million.

Inventories

We operate primarily as a private-label contract manufacturer. We build products based upon anticipated demand or following receipt of customer specific purchase orders. From time to time, we build inventory for private-label contract manufacturing customers under a specific purchase order with delivery dates that may subsequently be rescheduled or canceled at the customer’s request. We value inventory at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or net realizable value on an item-by-item basis, including costs for raw materials, labor and manufacturing overhead. We establish reserves equal to all or a portion of the related inventory to reflect situations in which the cost of the inventory is not expected to be recovered. This requires us to make estimates regarding the market value of our inventory, including an assessment for excess and obsolete inventory. Once we establish an inventory reserve in a fiscal period, the reduced inventory value is maintained until the inventory is sold or otherwise disposed of. In evaluating whether inventory is stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, management considers such factors as the amount of inventory on hand, the estimated time required to sell such inventory, the remaining shelf life and efficacy, the foreseeable demand within a specified time horizon and current and expected market conditions. Based on this evaluation, we record adjustments to cost of goods sold to adjust inventory to its net realizable value.

Property and Equipment

We state property and equipment at cost. Depreciation of property and equipment is provided using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives, generally ranging from 1 to 39 years. We amortize leasehold improvements using the straight-line method over the shorter of the useful life of the improvement or the term of the lease. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Significant expenditures that increase economic useful lives of property or equipment are capitalized and expensed over the useful life of such expenditure.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We periodically evaluate the carrying value of long-lived assets to be held and used when events and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recovered. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. During fiscal 2022 we recognized no impairment losses. We recognized $21,000 impairment losses during fiscal 2021.

Derivative Financial Instruments

We may use derivative financial instruments in the management of our foreign currency exchange risk inherent in our forecasted sales denominated in Euros and our long-term lease liability denominated in Swiss Francs. We may hedge our foreign currency exposures by entering into offsetting forward exchange contracts. To the extent we use derivative financial instruments that meet the relevant criteria, we account for them as cash flow hedges. Foreign exchange derivative instruments that do not meet the criteria for cash flow hedge accounting are marked-to-market through the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income. Historically, our cash flow derivative instruments related to our Euro sales have met the criteria for hedge accounting, while our derivative instruments related to our long-term lease liability do not.

We recognize any unrealized gains and losses associated with derivative instruments accounted for as cash flow hedges in income in the period in which the underlying hedged transaction is realized. To the extent the derivative instrument is deemed ineffective we would recognize the resulting gain or loss in income at that time. As of June 30, 2022, we held derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges primarily to protect against the foreign exchange risks inherent in our forecasted sales of products at prices denominated in currencies other than the U.S. Dollar, which is primarily the Euro. As of June 30, 2022, the notional amounts of our foreign exchange contracts were $37.7 million (€31.9 million). These contracts will mature over the next 14 months.

As of June 30, 2022, we held foreign currency contracts not designated as cash flow hedges primarily to protect against changes in valuation of our long-term lease liability. As of June 30, 2022, the notional amounts of our foreign currency contracts not designated as cash flow hedges were $5.2 million (CHF 5.0 million). These contracts will mature in the first quarter of fiscal year 2023.

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

We formerly sponsored a defined benefit pension plan. Effective June 21, 1999, we adopted an amendment to freeze benefit accruals to the participants. The plan obligation and related assets of the plan are presented in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. Plan assets, which consist primarily of marketable equity and debt instruments, are valued based upon third party market quotations. Independent actuaries, through the use of a number of assumptions, determine plan obligations and annual pension expense. Key assumptions in measuring the plan obligations include the discount rate and estimated future return on plan assets. In determining the discount rate, we use an average long-term bond yield. Asset returns are based on the historical returns of multiple asset classes to develop a risk free rate of return and risk premiums for each asset class. The overall rate for each asset class was developed by combining a long-term inflation component, the risk free rate of return and the associated risk premium. A weighted average rate is developed based on the overall rates and the plan’s asset allocation.

Revenue Recognition

We record revenue based on a five-step model which includes: (1) identifying a contract with a customer; (2) identifying the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determining the transaction price; (4) allocating the transaction price among the performance obligations; and (5) recognizing revenue as each of the various performance obligations are satisfied.

Revenue is measured as the net amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for fulfilling one or more performance obligations. We identify purchase orders from customers as contracts. The amount of consideration expected to be received and revenue recognized includes estimates of variable consideration, including estimates for early payment discounts, volume rebates, and contractual discounts. Such estimates are calculated using historical averages adjusted for any expected changes due to current business conditions and experience. We review and update these estimates at the end of each reporting period and the impact of any adjustments are recognized in the period the adjustments are identified. In assessing whether collection of consideration from a customer is probable, we consider both the customer's ability and intent to pay the amount of consideration when it is due. Payment of invoices is due as specified in the underlying customer agreement, which is typically 30 days from the invoice date. Invoices are generally issued on the date of transfer of control of the products ordered to the customer.

Revenue is recognized at the point in time that each of our performance obligations is fulfilled, and control of the ordered products is transferred to the customer. This transfer occurs when the product is shipped, or in some cases, when the product is delivered to the customer.

We recognize revenue in certain circumstances before delivery to the customer has occurred (commonly referred to as bill-and-hold transactions). Products sold under bill-and-hold arrangements are recorded as revenue when risk of ownership has been transferred to the customer, but the product has not shipped due to a substantive reason, typically at the customer’s request. The product must be separately identified as belonging to the customer, ready for physical transfer to the customer, and we cannot have the ability to redirect the product to another customer.

Contract liabilities and revenue recognized were as follows (in thousands):

We provide early payment discounts to certain customers. Based on historical payment trends, we expect that these customers will take advantage of these early payment discounts. The cost of these discounts is reported as a reduction to the transaction price. If the actual discounts differ from those estimated, the difference is also reported as a change in the transaction price. We require prepayment from certain customers. We record any payments received in advance of contracts fulfillment as a contract liability and classified as customer deposits on the consolidated balance sheet.

Except for product defects, no right of return exists on the sale of our products. We estimate returns based on historical experience and recognize a returns liability for any estimated returns. As of June 30, 2022, we have maintained a returns reserve of $13,000.

We currently own certain U.S. patents, and each patent’s corresponding foreign patent applications. All of these patents and patent rights relate to the ingredient known as beta-alanine marketed and sold under our CarnoSyn® and SR CarnoSyn® trade names. We recorded beta-alanine raw material sales and royalty and licensing income as a component of revenue in the amount of $16.2 million during fiscal 2022 and $14.2 million during fiscal 2021. These royalty income and raw material sale amounts resulted in royalty expense paid to the original patent holders from whom NAI acquired its patents and patent rights. We recognized royalty expense as a component of cost of goods sold in the amount of $0.7 million during fiscal 2022 and $0.6 million during fiscal 2021.

Cost of Goods Sold

Cost of goods sold includes raw material, labor, manufacturing overhead, and royalty expense.

Shipping and Handling Costs

We include fees earned on the shipment of our products to customers in sales and include costs incurred on the shipment of product to customers in costs of goods sold.

Research and Development Costs

As part of the services we provide to our private-label contract manufacturing customers, we may perform, but are not obligated to perform, certain research and development activities related to the development or improvement of their products. While our customers typically do not pay directly for this service, the cost of this service is included as a component of the price we charge to manufacture and deliver their products. We also direct and participate in clinical research studies, often in collaboration with scientists and research institutions, to validate the benefits of a product and provide scientific support for product claims and marketing initiatives.

Research and development costs are expensed when incurred. Our research and development expenses for the last two fiscal years ended June 30 were $2.5 million for fiscal 2022 and $1.9 million for fiscal 2021. These costs were included in selling, general and administrative expenses and cost of goods sold.

Advertising Costs

We expense the production costs of advertising the first time the advertising takes place. We incurred and expensed advertising costs in the amount of $1.1 million during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022 and $0.8 million during fiscal 2021. These costs were included in selling, general and administrative expenses.

Income Taxes

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) was enacted on March 27, 2020 in the United States. The CARES Act and related notices include several significant provisions, including delaying certain payroll tax payments, mandatory transition tax payments under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJ Act”), and estimated income tax payments. We filed an amended return for our fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2016 tax years under provisions of the CARES act, as discussed below.

On July 23, 2020, the Department of Treasury issued final regulations which provide an exclusion to the global intangible low-taxed income (GILTI) calculation on an elective basis. These regulations were effective September 21, 2020 and could be retroactively applied. Under these new regulations, we are able to exclude the GILTI calculation from our domestic taxable income if the deemed effective tax rate at our foreign subsidiary is greater than 18.9%. We assessed this rate, including the implementation of certain tax strategies, and we determined that our effective rate at NAIE was greater than 18.9% as of the year ended June 30, 2020. We reassessed our estimated taxes for fiscal 2020 and in the year ended June 30, 2021 we recorded a reduction to our fiscal 2020 estimated taxes of $0.4 million as a discrete benefit. As a result of this adjustment, our domestic tax return for fiscal 2020 reflected a net operating loss which, in accordance with the CARES ACT, we carried back to fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2016. Such carryback resulted in a rate differential that resulted in the recognition of a permanent discrete tax benefit of $0.3 million during the year ended June 30, 2021. For NAIE the result of this tax planning during the year ended June 30, 2021 was an additional foreign estimated tax benefit of $0.1 million.

To determine our quarterly provision for income taxes, we use an estimated annual effective tax rate that is based on expected annual income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available in the various jurisdictions to which we are subject. Certain significant or unusual items are separately recognized as discrete items in the quarter in which they occur and can be a source of variability in the effective tax rate from quarter to quarter. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions, if any, as an income tax expense.

We record valuation allowances to reduce our deferred tax assets to an amount that we believe is more likely than not to be realized. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will ultimately be realized based on whether future taxable income will be generated during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. During the year ended June 30, 2022, there was no change to our valuation allowance.

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured and recorded using enacted tax rates for each of the jurisdictions in which we operate, and adjusted using the tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date.

We account for uncertain tax positions using the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold. It is our policy to establish reserves based on management’s assessment of exposure for certain positions taken in previously filed tax returns that may become payable upon audit by tax authorities. Our tax reserves are analyzed quarterly and adjustments are made as events occur that we believe warrant adjustments to the reserves. Our practice is to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. As of June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021, we did not record any tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions.

Stock-Based Compensation

We had an omnibus equity incentive plan that was approved by our Board of Directors effective October 15, 2009 and approved by our stockholders at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on November 30, 2009 (the "2009 Plan"). The 2009 Plan expired on October 15, 2019. The Board of Directors approved a new omnibus equity incentive plan that became effective January 1, 2021 (the “2020 Plan”), which was approved by our stockholders at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders on December 4, 2020. Under the 2020 Plan, we may grant nonqualified and incentive stock options, restricted stock grants, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, and other stock-based awards to employees, non-employee directors and consultants.

We estimate the fair value of stock option awards at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Option valuation models require the use of highly subjective assumptions. Black-Scholes uses assumptions related to volatility, the risk-free interest rate, the dividend yield (which we assume to be zero, as we have not paid any cash dividends) and employee exercise behavior. Expected volatilities used in the model are based on the historical volatility of our stock price. The risk-free interest rate is derived from the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect in the period of grant. The expected life of stock option grants is derived from historical experience. The fair value of restricted stock shares granted is based on the market price of our common stock on the date of grant. We amortize the estimated fair value of our stock awards to expense over the related vesting periods.

We recognize forfeitures as they occur.

Use of Estimates

Our management has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities, revenue and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Actual results could differ from those estimates and our assumptions may prove to be inaccurate.

Net Income per Common Share

We compute basic net income per common share using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, and diluted net income per common share using the additional dilutive effect of all dilutive securities. The dilutive impact of stock options and restricted shares account for the additional weighted average shares of common stock outstanding for our diluted net income per common share computation. We calculated basic and diluted net income per common share as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

During the year ended June 30, 2022, we excluded 93,114 shares of unvested restricted stock and no shares related to stock options, as their impact would have been anti-dilutive. For the year ended June 30, 2021 we excluded shares related to stock options totaling 22,500 and restricted stock totaling 52,108.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. We place our cash and cash equivalents with highly rated financial institutions. Credit risk with respect to receivables is primarily concentrated with our three largest customers, whose receivable balances collectively represented 52.4% of gross accounts receivable at June 30, 2022 and 64.8% at June 30, 2021. As of June 30, 2022, we had a receivable balance of $3.4 million and as of June 30, 2021 we had a receivable balance of $3.5 million from a former contract manufacturing customer. We have recorded a bad debt reserve equal to 100% of this outstanding balance and thus did not reflect it in the percentages listed above.

Additionally, amounts due related to our beta-alanine raw material sales were 5.4% of gross accounts receivable at June 30, 2022 and 8.6% of gross accounts receivable at June 30, 2021. Concentrations of credit risk related to the remaining accounts receivable balances are limited due to the number of customers comprising our remaining customer base.

B. Inventories

Inventories, net, consisted of the following at June 30 (in thousands):

C. Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following at June 30 (dollars in thousands):

Depreciation expense was approximately $4.2 million in fiscal 2022 and $4.3 million in fiscal 2021.

D. Leases

We currently lease our Vista, CA and Lugano, Switzerland product manufacturing and support facilities. At the inception of a contract, we assess whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. Our assessment is based on: (1) whether the contract involves the use of a distinct identified asset, (2) whether we obtain the right to substantially all the economic benefit from the use of the asset throughout the period of the contract, and (3) whether we have the right to direct the use of the asset during such time period. At inception of a lease, we allocate the consideration in the contract to each lease component based on its relative stand-alone price to determine the lease payments.

Leases are classified as either finance leases or operating leases. A lease must be classified as a finance lease if any of the following criteria are met: the lease transfers ownership of the asset by the end of the lease term, the lease contains an option to purchase the asset that is reasonably certain to be exercised, the lease term is for a major part of the remaining useful life of the asset or the present value of the lease payments equals or exceeds substantially all of the fair value of the asset. A lease is classified as an operating lease if it does not meet any of these criteria. Substantially all our operating leases are comprised of payments for the use of manufacturing and office space. We have no leases classified as finance leases. As of June 30, 2022, the weighted average remaining lease term for our operating leases was 6.3 years. The weighted average discount rate for our operating leases was 4.12%. As of June 30, 2021, the weighted average remaining lease term for our operating leases was 6.3 years and the weighted average discount rate was 3.24%. The lease discount rate is determined as the rate of interest that a lessee would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment.

For all leases at the lease commencement date, a right-of-use asset and a lease liability are recognized. The right-of-use asset represents the right to use the leased asset for the lease term. The lease liability represents the present value of the lease payments under the lease.

The right-of-use asset is initially measured at cost, which primarily comprises the initial amount of the lease liability, plus any initial direct costs incurred, consisting mainly of brokerage commissions, less any lease incentives received. All right-of-use assets are reviewed for impairment. The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, our secured incremental borrowing rate for the same term as the underlying lease. For our real estate and other operating leases, we use our secured incremental borrowing rate.

Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise the following: the fixed noncancelable lease payments, payments for optional renewal periods where it is reasonably certain the renewal period will be exercised, and payments for early termination options unless it is reasonably certain the lease will not be terminated early. Certain leases contain escalation clauses. Fixed escalation clauses are included in our calculation of right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities. Escalation clauses based on the CPI (Consumer Price Index) are not included in our calculation of right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities because they cannot be readily determined.

Some of our manufacturing leases contain variable lease payments, including payments based on an index or rate. Variable lease payments based on an index or rate are initially measured using the index or rate in effect at lease commencement and separated into lease and non-lease components based on the initial amount stated in the lease or standalone selling prices. Lease components are included in the measurement of the initial lease liability. Additional payments based on the change in an index or rate, or payments based on a change in our portion of the operating expenses, including real estate taxes and insurance, are recorded as a period expense when incurred. Lease modifications result in remeasurement of the lease liability.

Lease expense for operating leases consists of the lease payments plus any initial direct costs, primarily brokerage commissions, and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Included in lease expense are any variable lease payments incurred in the period that were not included in the initial lease liability. Lease expense for finance leases consists of the amortization of the right-of-use asset on a straight-line basis over the lease term and interest expense determined on an amortized cost basis. The lease payments are allocated between a reduction of the lease liability and interest expense.

We have elected not to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a term of 12 months or less. The effect of short-term leases on our right-of-use asset, lease liability, and the short-term lease cost for the years ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 was not material.

Other information related to leases was as follows (in thousands) for the year ended June 30,

E. Other Comprehensive Income

Other comprehensive (loss) income (“OCL” and “OCI”) consisted of the following at June 30 (dollars in thousands):

F. Debt

On May 24, 2021, we entered into a new credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A (“Wells Fargo”) to extend the maturity for our working line of credit from November 1, 2022, to May 24, 2024. This new credit facility provides total lending capacity of up to $20.0 million and allows us to use the credit facility for working capital as well as potential acquisitions. On August 18, 2021, we entered into an amendment of our credit facility with Wells Fargo. The amended credit facility added a $10.0 million term loan to the existing $20.0 million credit facility, and permitted us to use the $10.0 million term loan as part of the $17.5 million purchase consideration for the acquisition of our new manufacturing and warehouse property in Carlsbad, California. The amended credit agreement also increased the allowed capital expenditures from $10.0 million to $15.0 million for fiscal 2022, (exclusive of the amount paid for the acquisition of the new Carlsbad property noted above). In addition, the new credit notes now reflect a change in the interest rate reference from LIBOR to SOFR. The Credit Agreement was amended and a new Revolving Line of Credit Note, and Security Agreement were entered into. A Term Note and real property security documents were added to secure the Term Note by the new Carlsbad property. Additionally, we entered into a second amendment to our credit facility with Wells Fargo on February 8, 2022 that is effective January 31, 2022 and modifies the annual limit imposed upon our ability to repurchase stock and issue dividends. This amendment increased this limit from $5.0 million annually to $7.0 million annually.

Under the terms of the Credit Agreement, borrowings are subject to eligibility requirements including maintaining (i) a ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth of not greater than 1.50 to 1.0 at any time; and (ii) a ratio of total current assets to total current liabilities of not less than 1.75 to 1.0 at each fiscal quarter end (iii) net income after taxes not less than $1.00, determined on a trailing four quarter basis with no two consecutive quarterly losses, determined as of each quarter end and (iv) a rolling 4-quarter fixed charge coverage ratio not less than 1.25 to 1.0 as of each fiscal quarter end. The credit agreement also includes a limitation on the amount of capital expenditures that can be made in a given fiscal year, with such limitation set at $15.0 million for our fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 and $7.5 million for all fiscal years thereafter. Any amounts outstanding under the line of credit will bear interest at a fixed or fluctuating interest rate as elected by us from time to time; provided, however, that if the outstanding principal amount is less than $100,000 such amount shall bear interest at the then applicable fluctuating rate of interest. If elected, the fluctuating rate per annum would be equal to 1.29% above the daily simple SOFR rate as in effect from time to time. If a fixed rate is elected, it would equal a per annum rate of 1.29% above the SOFR rolling 30-day average rate in effect on the first day of the applicable fixed rate term. Any amounts outstanding under the line of credit must be paid in full on or before the maturity date. Amounts outstanding that are subject to a fluctuating interest rate may be prepaid at any time without penalty. Amounts outstanding that are subject to a fixed interest rate may be prepaid at any time in minimum amounts of $100,000, subject to a prepayment fee equal to the sum of the discounted monthly differences between payment under a fixed rate versus payment under the variable rate for each month from the month of prepayment through the month in which the then applicable fixed rate term matures. There is an unused commitment fee of 0.125% required as part of the line of credit.

The Term Note used as part of the purchase consideration of our new manufacturing and warehouse property in Carlsbad California referenced above, is for the original principal amount of $10.0 million, and is a seven year term note with payments fully amortized based on a twenty five year assumed term. Installment payments under this loan commenced October 1, 2021 and continue through August 1, 2028 with a final installment consisting of all remaining amounts due to be paid in full on September 1, 2028. Amounts outstanding on this note during the term of the agreement will bear interest equal to 1.8% above the SOFR rolling 30-day average. In connection with our term loan, we entered into an interest rate swap with Wells Fargo that effectively fixes our interest rate on our term loan at 2.4% for the first three years of the term of the note.

Our obligations under the Credit Agreement are secured by our accounts receivable and other rights to payment, general intangibles, inventory, equipment and fixtures. We also have credit approval with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. which allows us to hedge foreign currency exposures up to 30 months in the future. We also have credit approval with Bank of America which allows us to hedge foreign currency exposures up to 24 months in the future.

As of June 30, 2022, we had $171,000 of interest capitalized to building improvements.

On June 30, 2022, we were in compliance with all of the financial and other covenants required under the Credit Agreement.

As of June 30, 2022, we had the full $20.0 million available for borrowing under our credit facility with Wells Fargo Bank.

G. Income Taxes

During fiscal 2022, we recorded U.S.-based domestic tax expense of $2.0 million. During fiscal 2021, we recorded U.S.-based domestic tax expense of $0.6 million.

The following is a geographical breakdown of income before income taxes (in thousands):

The provision for income taxes for the years ended June 30 consisted of the following (in thousands):

Net deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of June 30 were as follows (in thousands):

At June 30, 2022, we had state tax net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $3.4 million. Under California Assembly Bill 85, effective June 29, 2020, net operating loss deductions were suspended for tax years beginning in 2019, 2020, and 2021 and the carry forward periods of any net operating losses not utilized due to such suspension were extended. California Senate Bill 113, effective February 9, 2022 reinstates net operating loss deductions in tax years beginning in 2022. Our state tax loss carry forwards will begin to expire in fiscal 2029, unless used before their expiration.

Pursuant to Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), the annual use of the net operating loss carry forwards and research and development tax credits could be limited by any greater than 50% ownership change during any three-year testing period. We did not have any ownership changes that met this criterion during the fiscal years ended June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2021.

We are subject to taxation in the U.S., Switzerland and various state jurisdictions. Our tax years for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 and forward are subject to examination by the U.S. tax authorities. Our tax years for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2018 and forward are subject to examination by the state tax authorities. Our tax years for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021 and forward are subject to examination by the Swiss tax authorities.

NAIE’s effective tax rate for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 for Swiss federal, cantonal and communal taxes is approximately 20%.

As part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the Tax Act), we were required to recognize a one-time deemed repatriation transition tax during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018 based on our total post-1986 earnings and profits (E&P) from our Swiss subsidiary, NAIE. This accumulated E&P amount has historically been considered permanently reinvested thereby allowing us to defer recognizing any U.S. income tax on the amount. We no longer consider undistributed foreign earnings from NAIE as of December 31, 2017 as indefinitely reinvested. We consider earnings accumulated subsequent to December 31, 2017 as indefinitely reinvested.

A reconciliation of our income tax provision computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 21% for fiscal 2022 and for fiscal 2021 to net income before income taxes for the year ended June 30 is as follows (dollars in thousands):